Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, through his Malasakit Team, extended assistance to families affected by a fire in Makati City on Monday, 5 January, reiterating his call for stronger disaster preparedness and institutionalized evacuation facilities nationwide.

During the relief activity, Go emphasized the importance of Republic Act No. 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which was signed into law on 6 December 2024. The measure mandates the establishment of permanent, safe, and fully equipped evacuation centers in all cities and municipalities across the country.

As the principal author and co-sponsor of the law, Go said institutionalized evacuation centers are essential to ensuring the safety, dignity, and orderly recovery of families displaced by disasters.

In a video message, the senator urged government agencies to prioritize the implementation of the law.

“Ako po ay nakikiusap sa mga kasamahan ko sa gobyerno. Bigyang prayoridad ang evacuation centers dahil batas naman po ito kesa nasasayang sa flood control na ginagagawang gatasan ng iilan po,” Go said.

Go also cited Republic Act No. 11589, or the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Modernization Act, which he principally authored and co-sponsored. The law establishes a 10-year modernization program for the BFP, including the expansion of personnel, acquisition of modern firefighting equipment, and enhanced training to strengthen fire prevention and response nationwide.

In addition, the senator reiterated his support for Senate Bill No. 415, the proposed Rental Housing Subsidy Program, which he refiled in the 20th Congress. The measure seeks to provide rental assistance to families displaced by disasters while they rebuild and transition to permanent housing.

“Ang lagi ko pong sinasabi, ang gamit ay mabibili natin ‘yan, ang pera, kikitain niyo ‘yan kung magsumikap lang tayo. Pero ang perang kikitain ay hindi mabibili ang buhay,” Go said, urging families to prioritize life and health over material losses.

The assistance activity was held at the Guadalupe Nuevo Sports Complex in Makati City, where Go’s Malasakit Team distributed financial aid, snacks, food packs, water containers, vitamins, shirts, fans, and balls to 29 affected families.

“Tandaan natin, minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na puwede natin gawin sa ating kapwa ay gawin na natin ngayon dahil hindi na tayo babalik sa mundong ito,” Go added.